Top 20 Lakes in San Mateo County
Lakes in San Mateo County are often integral to the region's water supply, situated within the rift valley formed by the San Andreas Fault. These bodies of water provide diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities. The county's geography includes the northern Santa Cruz Mountains, contributing to the natural setting of its lakes. Many lakes offer areas for walking, biking, or fishing.
Best lakes in San Mateo County
- The most popular lakes is Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, a lake that isโฆ
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
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San Andreas Lake
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Oracle Lagoon
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Gray Whale Cove State Beach
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Brisbane Lagoon
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Ravenswood Open Space Preserve
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Bay Trail on Foster City Levee
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Alpine Pond
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Ravenswood Open Space Preserve
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Pescadero Marsh Nature Preserve
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Popular around San Mateo County
Bay Area Ridge Trail โ Circumnavigating the San Francisco Bay
Bay Area Ridge Trail โ Hiking the backbone of The Bay
On the most beautiful route of California - The Pacific Coast Route
Chasing flow in the Bay Area
Classy road bike rides on the SF peninsula
Hiking in San Mateo County
Road Cycling Routes in San Mateo County
Cycling in San Mateo County
Running Trails in San Mateo County
MTB Trails in San Mateo County
Other adventures in San Mateo County
Tips from the Community
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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San Andreas Lake is a hidden gem tucked into the hills of San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco. Originally a natural sag pond formed by the San Andreas Fault, it was transformed into a reservoir in the late 1800s and now serves as a vital water source for the region. The lake is off-limits for swimming or boating, but you can enjoy its peaceful beauty from the San Andreas Trail or the popular Sawyer Camp Trail, which runs along its eastern edge. It's a serene spot where you can walk or bike with sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills, all while standing right on one of the worldโs most famous fault lines. Despite its proximity to urban life, San Andreas Lake offers a quiet, scenic escape steeped in natural and historical significance.
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This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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Ravenswood Preserve, a 376-acre wetland in the San Francisco Bay, is a great spot for birdwatching and family fun. Open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, it features a flat trail for walking and biking along the marsh levee. Migrating birds like sandpipers, avocets, and herons frequent the area, while the marshland are home to endangered species like the Ridgway's rail.
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This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is a top spot for cyclists, featuring mostly paved paths with minimal car traffic. The trail runs through scenic areas like Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering beautiful lake views. On Sundays, you can ride the car-free Caรฑada Road segment for a more relaxed experience. Be mindful of the 15 mph speed limit, especially around hikers. The Sawyer Camp segment provides a gentle descent and stunning views, perfect for an easy ride through woodlands and along the reservoir.
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This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for walking and biking in San Mateo County?
For walking and biking, the trails around San Andreas Lake and Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir are highly recommended. The San Andreas Trail and the popular Sawyer Camp Trail offer serene beauty and sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which runs along the reservoir, is also a top spot for cyclists with mostly paved paths and minimal car traffic.
Can I go fishing in the lakes of San Mateo County?
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated areas. Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is a favored spot for local anglers interested in trout and bass fishing. Water Dog Lake in Belmont is also known among locals for fishing carp and largemouth bass.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in San Mateo County?
Many lakes offer family-friendly opportunities. The trails around San Andreas Lake and Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir are suitable for family walks and bike rides. Additionally, places like Oracle Lagoon and Brisbane Lagoon are noted as family-friendly spots for enjoying the scenery.
What is the historical significance of San Andreas Lake?
San Andreas Lake was originally a natural sag pond formed by the San Andreas Fault and later transformed into a reservoir in the late 1800s. It holds historical significance as it was in its vicinity that the Portolรก expedition camped in 1769. The lake is situated directly on the San Andreas Fault, which shares its name, making it a site of natural and historical importance. You can learn more about its geological context on Wikipedia.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible areas around the lakes?
Yes, Oracle Lagoon is noted as being wheelchair-accessible. Additionally, sections of the Bay Trail, such as the Bay Trail on Foster City Levee, are paved and wheelchair-friendly, offering views of the water.
Can I go swimming or boating in the reservoirs?
Swimming and boating are generally prohibited in reservoirs like San Andreas Lake and Crystal Springs Reservoir due to their role as vital public water sources for the region. These lakes are primarily for water supply, with recreational activities limited to trails and designated fishing areas.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around San Mateo County lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. For instance, Ravenswood Open Space Preserve, which includes wetland areas, is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with migrating birds like sandpipers, avocets, and herons frequenting the area. The marshlands are also home to endangered species like the Ridgway's rail.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in San Mateo County?
Beyond walking and biking directly around the lakes, San Mateo County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including the moderate Aรฑo Nuevo Point Trail and the easy San Andreas Fault Trail. For easy hikes, consider routes like the Gray Whale Cove and Old San Pedro Mountain Loop. Gravel biking is also popular, with challenging routes such as the Baquiano Trail โ Rockaway Beach loop. Explore more options in the Running Trails, Easy Hikes, and Gravel Biking guides for San Mateo County.
Where can I find a unique photo opportunity related to the lakes?
Oracle Lagoon is particularly noted for its calm, crystal-clear waters that create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings surrounding it. The tranquil setting, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes it an ideal location for capturing breathtaking images.
Are there any less crowded lakes in San Mateo County?
While popular lakes like San Andreas and Crystal Springs can attract many visitors, many smaller bodies of water primarily serve as part of the region's water infrastructure and may have limited public access, making them less crowded. Alpine Pond is one such example, offering a more secluded natural experience.
What is Brisbane Lagoon and how was it formed?
Brisbane Lagoon is a remnant of San Francisco Bay. It was formed by the construction of the U. S. Highway 101 causeway, which led to its separation from the main bay. Over time, much of its north and central portions were filled with landfill, diminishing its original size.
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